Increased funding of this project allowed for the expansion of the number of camps and programs available to these campers from two camps in 2014 to four camps in 2015. The expansion of eligible camps helped to remove a barrier to participation for families who could not provide their own transportation to a camp that might be far across the city and inaccessible by public transportation routes, by providing a camp option not far from their own neighborhood.

Each year hundreds of children who want to participate in the City’s summer camps and nature programs do not because their families can’t afford the fees. The Foundation’s need-based scholarships offer them the opportunity to engage with nature, and to have fun and build social skills along the way. By underwriting scholarships, the Foundation boost will camp participation and help children develop healthy habits that last their lifetimes. The Foundation believes in the principle that a connection to the natural world is fundamental to the health and well-being of children.

The Foundation projects that the Give Play program will award 97 scholarships in 2016, and will be able to expand the number of eligible camp programs to eleven in 2016.

The Foundation’s 2015 scholarship program was made possible by the support of Duke Energy and the Woman’s Club of Raleigh, as well as individual private donors. To support the City of Oaks Foundation and the Give Play program, please visit cityofoaksfoundation.org.